Dental emergencies can happen any place, any time. In an ideal world, they would only occur during normal business hours. Unfortunately, that’s just not the case, and if you’re left without a professional you can call, it may feel scary or hopeless. Fortunately, there’s good news. When considering how to find an emergency dentist quickly, you’ll need to be sure to try and plan ahead as much as possible. Read on to find out what steps you can take to get the care you need from a professional you can trust.
The Benefits of Planning Ahead
Identifying the right emergency dentist for you and your family is crucial to avoiding panic. It’s hard enough trying to handle a sudden injury that has left you with a knocked-out or broken tooth. By choosing someone you can trust and feel comfortable taking care of your smile, you’ll feel more at ease should a crisis occur. When searching for this particular professional, make sure you consider their availability (hours), location, and experience. It is also helpful to find out if they provide sedation and comprehensive services, as it can be troublesome having to seek a referral for certain restorative treatments. Visiting websites and reading reviews are great ways to find out information about a particular dentist before deciding who you’ll plan to see for emergency dental care.
But should you find yourself in a situation where you do not have an emergency dentist selected, it’s best that you get to your local ER. While there are many downsides to this approach (i.e., long wait times, treatment of only your immediate symptoms, lack of knowledge by a general doctor), it’s better
What You Can Do When an Emergency Occurs
While it is strongly recommended that you see a qualified dentist when experiencing a dental emergency, it’s important to remember that not all situations are considered “urgent.” In fact, the American Dental Association (ADA) states that 24% of all dental injuries are non-urgent while most others are only “semi-urgent.” Unless you are bleeding continuously, experience increased swelling, or have a broken or fractured jaw, you should opt to see an emergency dentist instead of visiting the ER.
Once you find a professional who meets your criteria and can deliver timely care, make sure you thoroughly read and understand their policy when it comes to dental emergencies. Many offices are available after normal business hours, but if your dentist is not and you sustain an injury after their office has closed, call a leave a voicemail. It may be that they will leave an emergency phone number or instructions should you need them.
Planning ahead for unexpected dental injuries can not only save you time but also make your experience less stressful. Don’t wait until a problem occurs to find the right dentist for you and your family. Start your search today.
About the Authors
Dr. Rose Johnson and Dr. Wayne Barker are committed to helping your smile look and feel its best. When a dental emergency occurs, you shouldn’t have to wait to receive immediate help. Fortunately, at Jacksonville Complete Dentistry, we offer same-day appointments for individuals in need. Whether it is a chipped or broken tooth or a soft tissue laceration, you can count on us to minimize your pain and provide exceptional care. Visit our website or call (904) 645-6457 to discover what we can do to help you in your time of need.